The Cincinnati Bengals know their defense must take a step forward in 2025 if they hope to mount a serious playoff push.
While the team has heavily invested in its offensive weapons—extending wideouts Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and tight end Mike Gesicki—the same can’t be said for the other side of the ball.
With quarterback Joe Burrow at the helm and a dynamic receiving corps, Cincinnati will rely on its offense to keep pace. But concerns remain on defense, which surrendered the seventh-most points in the league last season.
Compounding matters, star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson—who has recorded 35 sacks over the past two seasons—is seeking a trade, citing a lack of direct communication from the Bengals regarding a contract extension.
Amid uncertainty on defense, Cincinnati made a familiar move ahead of OTAs, bringing back a known figure to help stabilize the unit.
The Cincinnati Bengals signed a 3 game starter at LB
Via the Bengals:
“Originally a college free agent signee of Jacksonville in 2019, Giles-Harris (6-2, 234) was on Cincinnati’s practice squad for one game late last season. He also has spent time on the practice squads and rosters of the Jaguars (’19-20 and ’24), the Buffalo Bills (’21 and ’22) and the New England Patriots (2023 and ’24).
“He has played in 22 total NFL games with three starts and recorded 20 tackles and one sack on defense, as well as 10 tackles on special teams. He will be classified as a second-year player in 2025.”
